What to Expect at the Wrightsville/Hawkins Complex Entrance: Photo ID, Metal Detectors, and Package Scanning
Visiting the Wrightsville/Hawkins Complex? Expect an ID check and security screening at the pedestrian entrance. You'll show photo ID to get in, walk through a metal detector, and have any packages scanned. Here's the part that surprises people: you'll need that same photo ID again when you leave.
The perimeter entry process at Wrightsville/Hawkins is straightforward but strict. You'll present photo ID to the officer at the control station, then walk through a metal detector. Any packages get scanned at the staff/pedestrian entrance. Here's what catches people off guard: you'll also need to show photo ID when leaving the complex perimeter. Keep it with you the entire visit. (These procedures are described in an Arkansas Department of Corrections facility audit.)
You'll show photo ID before entering the Wrightsville/Hawkins Complex perimeter. At the control station, the officer will ask all pedestrians - including visitors - for photo ID before letting anyone through. (This entry procedure is described in an Arkansas Department of Corrections facility audit.)
Your ID isn't just for getting in. At this complex, everyone leaving the perimeter - staff and visitors alike - must show photo ID on the way out. Keep it somewhere accessible during your visit, not buried in a bag or left behind. (This exit check is also described in an Arkansas Department of Corrections facility audit.)
Keep your ID handy: You'll show photo ID to enter and again when you leave, so don't stash it somewhere hard to reach.
After the ID check, expect airport-style security. You'll walk through a metal detector, and any packages will be scanned. These steps can slow things down when it's busy, so come prepared - no last-minute digging through bags. (These screening measures are described in an Arkansas Department of Corrections facility audit.)
- Present your photo ID at the control station - pedestrians (including visitors) show photo ID before being admitted into the perimeter.
- Go through the metal detector - the staff/pedestrian entrance requires metal detector screening.
- Have packages scanned - any packages you bring are subject to scanning at the staff/pedestrian entrance.
Practical Tips
- ✓ Bring your photo ID and keep it easy to reach for check-in at the control station.
- ✓ Keep that same ID with you during the visit - you’ll need it again when leaving the perimeter.
- ✓ Allow extra time for the metal detector and package scanning at the staff/pedestrian entrance.
- ✓ If you’re unsure what you’re allowed to carry in, confirm the current rules before you travel.
Most delays happen because people aren't ready. Have your photo ID in hand when you reach the control station. Be prepared for the metal detector and package scan. You'll move through faster and with less stress. And since you'll show ID again on the way out, treat it like a must-keep item for your entire visit.
Rules can change, and official guidance doesn't always reflect the latest updates - treat this as a guide, not a guarantee. Questions before your trip? Contact the ADC Constituent Services Office at (870) 267-6385 or ADC.Public.Information@arkansas.gov.
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